The Israel Defense Forces has confirmed that Mohammed Bassam Mohammed Mushtaha, a company commander in the Shati Battalion of Hamas's military wing, was killed in a targeted airstrike in northern Gaza on July 30, 2026.
According to the military's statement, Mushtaha infiltrated Israeli territory during the October 7 massacre and played an active, direct role in holding numerous Israeli hostages throughout the war. Among those held captive by him were Tsachi Idan (of blessed memory), Staff Sergeant Noa Marciano (of blessed memory), Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, Ori Megidish, Naama Levy, and Matan Angrest.
Israeli security officials had recently identified that Mushtaha was attempting to advance additional terrorist operations against IDF forces and Israeli civilians. He was eliminated to remove the immediate threat he posed.
The IDF emphasized that Southern Command forces remain deployed in the area in accordance with the agreement, and will continue to act decisively to eliminate any immediate threat to Israeli civilians and security forces.
